By 2011-10-08 11:09:45
by 
Randy 2011-10-08 13:17:36
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Any day is fine with me as long as it's 7pm or later
by Mary 2011-10-08 14:32:21
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Gun show weekend of the 15th and SREC meeting, Monday the 17th.
by Mary 2011-10-08 14:34:05
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I don't know if Spring Creek BBQ is available on the other days, only have Tuesday, the 11th confirmed.
by Randy 2011-10-09 13:13:27
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Robert Curlen is presenting his "Undocumented" movie to the Frisco Tea Party on the 17th
by christine Paul 2011-10-09 15:50:03
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Prefer the Preston Tower location over the Spring Creek BBQ.
by Christine Paul 2011-10-10 12:39:48
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Yes, for Wednesday. Where will it be?
Fellow Coordinators -
As you know, the Dallas Tea Party has rules against issuing formal endorsements of candidates on behalf of the organization, but that rule does not expressly prohibit endorsements by tea party coordinators in their individual capacity.
Nevertheless, a number of us who are publicly associated with the Dallas Tea Party have made it a personal practice to refrain from making public candidate endorsements, so as to avoid the wrong appearance.
We haven't formalized these practices as of yet, but we're thinking it may be time that we did.
To that end, please share any thoughts you may have on the following question:
Where a tea party coordinator personally supports a candidate, what level of support, if any, should that coordinator be free to express publicly?
Thank you.
By 2011-07-16 17:40:36
by 
Mimi Buser 2011-07-16 18:10:19
Whatever level the coordinator deems appropriate, as long as we aren't representing Dallas Tea Party when we do so.
I believe it's OK to talk about the qualities of any of the candidates but I think it should end at publicly endorsing a candidate. Our whole reason for being organized as the Tea Party is to help educate people, not be like the "dictator in chief" and tell you what you should or should do.
If the DTP is now a 501(c)4, it can legally endorse or support individual candidates. I think the DTP should review candidate records and start giving actual endorsements and non-endorsements with reasons why. If there are two candidates running for a single office that meet the tea party standards, both should be listed as endorsed.
At the local/zip code level, each group should determine whether and to what degree they want to support and/or endorse candidates.
They should probably put a statement on their neighborhood page indicating that group's policy regarding endorsement.
At the local/zip code level, each group should determine whether and to what degree they want to support and/or endorse candidates.
They should probably put a statement on their neighborhood page indicating that group's policy regarding endorsement.
Each election many of my members ask who best represent the tea party principles because they're just too busy to research each candidate's position on multiple issues. Rather than having members burned out on figuring out who represents them, it seems a better use of their limited time & energy to allow Coordinators to endorse candidates, then have members spend precious time & energy toward supporting the candidate(s). Thus far, it has worked well with my 3 groups. The members then choose whether they wish to help support/campaign for a specific candidate or not. I always add a disclaimer in my messages that it is not an endorsement by the Dallas Tea Party, and when I mentioned names I always clarify by stating that Coordinators as individuals can state who we think best represent the tea party principles.
I'm actually torn on this issue. Given the perpetual degrading of the organization and members, and the ongoing efforts to use any issue (real or fabricated) to marginalize us, I suggest we refrain from public endorsement of candidates. If, however, the membership chooses to begin endorsements, I strongly suggest the development of a rigorous policy that requires complete disclosure of the rationale for the endorsement, the nature of the relationship, and any potential benefit both personal or otherwise that could come from the endorsement.
Personal support should not involve the DTP in name or use of email lists, etc., but otherwise who I personally endorse is just that--personal. I also think the tea party needs to endorse to be effective.
DTP needs to grow a backbone! ENDORSE and be EFFECTIVE!
Only WINNERS take a risk - 2 kinds of loosers - ones that went full out but lost and THE MANY LOSERS that didn't have the courage to make a stand!
Only WINNERS take a risk - 2 kinds of loosers - ones that went full out but lost and THE MANY LOSERS that didn't have the courage to make a stand!
by 
anonymous (BFE) 2011-07-20 06:44:49
In 2007 and 2008 all of the national and local conservative talk show host refused to make endorsements of ANY presidential candidate Just MAYBE if they would have, we would have ended up with someone with spine as the Repub. candidate and as a result we would not have ended up with a communist in the W.H. I believe that it is absurd,and WRONG that Tea Parties do not make endorsements. We cannot allow Romney to get the nomination. We need someone with metal,that will stand up to Sotero {or whatever his name really is}We need to play like we are playing to win,the democrats,communists and homosexuals DEFINITELY are.
A coordinator should make it clear that their endorsement is personal, not that of the Tea Party. When they work for a candidate's campaign, they should represent themselves as such, not as representing the Tea Party. In the gray area, they should state that they're representing one or the other, but it would be OK to say they're also a Tea Party member or that they also work for the candidate.
I agree with others that the Tea Parties would do a great service to rate candidates on our core issues. Especially in the primaries, when we need Tea Party participation the most to ensure we have conservative candidates to choose from, too many people are too busy to do the research as Landra says.
I think rating candidates would go far toward raising participation as well, and help make voters more confident in their selections. Rigorous disclosure of the rationale as Jeffrey recommends would be key.
I agree with others that the Tea Parties would do a great service to rate candidates on our core issues. Especially in the primaries, when we need Tea Party participation the most to ensure we have conservative candidates to choose from, too many people are too busy to do the research as Landra says.
I think rating candidates would go far toward raising participation as well, and help make voters more confident in their selections. Rigorous disclosure of the rationale as Jeffrey recommends would be key.
Given the stance of the parent organization, best would be no one in a tea party coordinator role displaying any preferences, ever. If they want to be leaders for a candidate, they should go do that. If they want to be in the Dallas Tea Party, no preferences. The whole idea of the Tea Party was supposed to be bi-partisan. It seems to've been co-opted by the GOP. Personally, I like the non-partisan approach. There may be a rare Democrat (or a Dem in transition) who believes in Tea Party principles, but is also pro abortion, etc. Tea Party principles are really libertarian, more than anything else. That's my 2 cents, as they say.
I believe we need to keep in mind that as the political elite see their power under attack they will fight back viciously, with media help. The fact that any Tea Party leader is speaking their own opinion and not representing the Tea Party will be completely lost. So anything any identified leader says will be attributed to the movement as a whole.
That being said, maybe if all leaders have a standard disclaimer that they use anytime they give their own opinion, making it very clear that they are expressing their free right to give their opinion, not to be associated with the Tea Party. At least if this is done when the media cuts the disclaimer out, it will be there and the cut can be shown, showing the bias. Not perfect but a possible approach.
We just need to understand the environment and have policies not to give our opponent ammunition.
That being said, maybe if all leaders have a standard disclaimer that they use anytime they give their own opinion, making it very clear that they are expressing their free right to give their opinion, not to be associated with the Tea Party. At least if this is done when the media cuts the disclaimer out, it will be there and the cut can be shown, showing the bias. Not perfect but a possible approach.
We just need to understand the environment and have policies not to give our opponent ammunition.
You will find it difficult to tell liberty minded individuals and leadership types to not give opinion...and any opinion is subject to bias of one type or another. Those who try to mislead or corrupt the TEA party will be exposed sooner than later so there is little danger in allowing free speech. The truth always comes out in the end. Any endorsement is usually followed by examples of why that person deserves an endorsement and it would be odd to endorse someone to a group that does not define or fit the image that the group purpose portrays. There is always a chance that someone runs on a platform and then votes improperly once in office but it is our duty to choose wisely and hold our leadership's feet to the fire...not to foolishly follow those who do not understand the Constitution or Bill of Rights.
A coordinator can support a candidate as much as that person wishes. We need to make it clear that the coordinator, the individual person, is supporting the candidate, and that the Dallas Tea party, whatever that is, does not EVER endorse candidates.
I agree with a non organizational endorsement. I think it is wise to take a candidates' views and align them with our 5 core values 7 making that known. Those that align...give the thumbs up. We could run into a situation on a Social issues where I might disagree with another coordinator or member based on my faith. I have admired the DTP for realizing we will not agree with all folks and emphasizing what we do agree on and so far that has been our 5 core values. During my meetings I often say..."taking off my tea party hat for a moment...I, Patti say this...but tea party hat back on thus and such." I agree we want to inform on the issues. We want to empower citizens to think, research, process and decide. we do not want to spoon feed. But if someone asks my opinion...I will speak as an individual.
Good Question. Primaries are the key!!!
Good Question. Primaries are the key!!!
That's tough. I feel all of us should have the right to support who we want to as individuals.
I do see the potential issues for those who are known well as a Dallas Tea Party leader.
The best thing I can think of is not to publically endorse anyone when doing a tea party related speech or appearance. Yard signs, money support, etc. should be your individual choice and right.
All you can do is try to be clear when endorsing a candidate that you are doing so as an individual and are not representing the Dallas Tea Party group.
Good luck.
I do see the potential issues for those who are known well as a Dallas Tea Party leader.
The best thing I can think of is not to publically endorse anyone when doing a tea party related speech or appearance. Yard signs, money support, etc. should be your individual choice and right.
All you can do is try to be clear when endorsing a candidate that you are doing so as an individual and are not representing the Dallas Tea Party group.
Good luck.
Very sticky situation. I think its ok to say " I'm really looking at so and so and hears why " But what I really like is to have access to what a candidate has done in the past, what they have said about certain issues and how they have voted. This is the only thing that speaks volumes to me. Maybe that info could be offered when someone is trying to " promote " one they like
I was dissapointed to see Mike Rawlings win the Dallas Mayoral race, especially since he had ties to the SEIU, and JW Price. I think more Dallas voters needed to be educated about this. More and more candidates run without their party tag on their advertisements, and many voters have no idea of their inclinations.
Since the Tea Party is vilified by MSM, maybe the Tea Party needs to target and identify candidates that need to be REJECTED.
In fact, I almost wish the Tea Party had a separate and anonymous wing that would target and take down the enemies of the Republic and the Constitution.
For instance, the fact that neither the D.C. Beltway Republicans and the MSM will not point to Obama as the rapist of the US Treasury, and abuser of US Taxpayers is beyond me. Instead they have let Obama be seen as the mediator for the debt "solution", instead of the problem that he is with NO credibility. Obama needs to be branded as the liar, thief, and enemy of the people.
Since the Tea Party is vilified by MSM, maybe the Tea Party needs to target and identify candidates that need to be REJECTED.
In fact, I almost wish the Tea Party had a separate and anonymous wing that would target and take down the enemies of the Republic and the Constitution.
For instance, the fact that neither the D.C. Beltway Republicans and the MSM will not point to Obama as the rapist of the US Treasury, and abuser of US Taxpayers is beyond me. Instead they have let Obama be seen as the mediator for the debt "solution", instead of the problem that he is with NO credibility. Obama needs to be branded as the liar, thief, and enemy of the people.
The DTP is about educating, not endorsing when we cross that line you can be sure we will loose support of many who do not believe the same. NO, to publicly advocating support of a candidate, personally or otherwise, it will ALWAYS be used against us as a whole. The media will turn it into a fiasco "mixed, confused group" and we will loose our creditability. We are about educating, and exposing candidates' voting records and keeping candidates' honest.
Here is what I know: someone in our group indicated that "even though we TELL people the DTP does not endorse - we really do." And they were talking about the GROUP - not individually. I have always operated under the "we don't endorse meme" but if that has changed I need to know.
I have told a couple of people who I support but it was an offline conversation, and I provided information about why I endorsed that person and encouraged them to make their own decision.
I have told a couple of people who I support but it was an offline conversation, and I provided information about why I endorsed that person and encouraged them to make their own decision.
The First Amendment gives an "individual" the freedom to express his or her feelings either Pro or Con for a candidate or Organization including the Tea Party. The Constitution didn't require that whatever a person utters publicly must be intelligent, smart or true.
Fellow Coordinators:
As you know, early voting for the Municipal Elections begins Monday, May 2 (1 week from tomorrow).
Are you planning to do a G.O.T.V. effort in your neighborhood(s)?
If so, will you need door hangers, walk maps, training, etc?
In general, what do you need?
Please let us know in the comments below.
By 2011-04-24 14:10:29
Fellow Coordinators:
As you may know, CNN and Tea Party Express are co-sponsoring a Presidential debate.
Here is a write-up on the joint venture, including perspectives from critics of the joint venture::
We write to advise you that The Dallas Tea Party has been invited to participate as a co-sponsor of the CNN / Tea Party Express debate.
This invitation presents our organization with an important decision to make.
On the one hand, this invitation presents an opportunity for national public exposure.
On the other hand, this would involve alignment with two groups (CNN and Tea Party Express) who are not necessarily viewed in a positive light by grassroots tea party organizers and activists.
Please share your thoughts below.
By 2011-04-08 06:29:46
On one hand, we should be lights in a dark world, without being negatively influenced by it. This necessitates strong character from both Leadership and those who implement it's goals. On the other hand, we are known by the company we keep. If we can remain unsullied by both CNN and TP Express, sticking to our core beliefs; yes we should embrace this opportunity to express ourselves and our goals to a larger audience tha we now enjoy.
Did you see last nights CNN Tea Party Express "representative" interview? Not good.
No No No No No No No
We dont need to risk being involved with Obama's CNN News Network for recognition.
Election results -- that is where we have and will continue to get recognition.
Is this another April fools joke?
No No No No No No No
We dont need to risk being involved with Obama's CNN News Network for recognition.
Election results -- that is where we have and will continue to get recognition.
Is this another April fools joke?
by 
carikelemen 2011-04-08 11:34:51
My gut tells me to pass on this one.
I do not believe that we should be a co-sponsor with the EXpress nor CNN. I do not trust the CNN network to put us in the best light based on history of their past broadcasts. The Tea PartY Express in my opinion has been to much influenced by the GOP and their political agendas. We should politely decline and save our money and energy for projects that we will control and that will reflect our core principles in the light we intend.
I say absolutely no.
My wife says no also!
I say absolutely no.
My wife says no also!
by Mimi Buser 2011-04-08 13:31:04
Agree with the bulk of the respondents - there's not much upside to this and a bunch of potential downside. Let's pass.
by 
richdejohn 2011-04-08 14:17:16
Until the rules of the debate, in writing, and required to be signed by all sponsors, Clearly make it a Totally Non-partisan Debate, I wouldn't touch it with a 100 ft pole.. Any Political party with at least 5% of the national vote in 2010 should be able to participate with candidates...for the presidency...If this is for republicans only, let the republicans control/support it...it ain't something TEA Partiers should be supporting, because it would be Partisan
by richdejohn 2011-04-08 14:19:59
can you tell from my comments i vote No too
I am not sure why the Tea Party Express is not viewed in a positive light. There are so many Tea Party groups and I don't know the difference. Pleas tell us the reason they are are not viewied in a positive light so that we can make a more informed deicsion. With respect to CNN, my initial reaction is that it would give our group a chance to get their views out and make good points, but it would take someone who is experienced at debating and getting the message out in a few words because that is all we will get, a few words.
by Bill Eastland 2011-04-08 16:47:10
I presume this means DTP will have a representative on the panel of questioners at the debate. If so:
Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead! Go for it. Stop the paranoia and confront these people head-on.
It is our duty as citizens to engage in the political debate. This is a superb opportunity to do so. We are wussies if we don't forcefully represent our views.
Don't fall for the hype that this is some kind of trap. The Left wants us to refuse so they can denigrate the movement and claim it is fractured.
The fact the DTP was invited to co-sponsor is testament to its perceived strength. It is a complement.
Turning down the invite does more harm to the public image of the DTP than it does good.
Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead! Go for it. Stop the paranoia and confront these people head-on.
It is our duty as citizens to engage in the political debate. This is a superb opportunity to do so. We are wussies if we don't forcefully represent our views.
Don't fall for the hype that this is some kind of trap. The Left wants us to refuse so they can denigrate the movement and claim it is fractured.
The fact the DTP was invited to co-sponsor is testament to its perceived strength. It is a complement.
Turning down the invite does more harm to the public image of the DTP than it does good.
My first thought was no because it's CNN. I thought they were very left wing. During the Presidential Elections they were very Obama and really against Hillary. The commentator's were very disrespectful of the candidates they didn't like. With this being said, I think we should go for it, we have nothing to lose. If we don't go they will spin it, and possibly they will do a spin if we go. If someone does go you will need to know what questions will be asked, etc., just like any other interview/debate. It's time people really know what we are all about!!
I see little in the positive in the comments made. So I will play devil's advocate.We have several leaders in the DTP who frequent CNN on various talk shows who fair quiet well.THIS is different.THIS is an opportunity to speak up and have a say in asking TOUGH QUESTIONS! It could be a chance to show all the "crazies" who believe Tea Partiers are radicals, like the far left, that we are just "common sense" folks who are looking out for ALL Americans and NOT special interest, i.e., unions.The tea party movement has come a long way. Many believed the Tea Party would have shriveled up and disappeared by now! Look where we are today, daily we are feared by the dems. What a GRAND opportunity to show the world, YES, the world will be watching to see who will survive the tea party question. I vote YES, but it certainly would depend on the final contract, would DTP have a member on the panel? Asking their own question to avoid any mistranslations, isn%u2019t that what we are really concerned ab
gspurlockWhat does co-sponsor mean? If it doesn't mean we have to pay for it, but will be participating, then participate. We have plenty of members who can represent us and the American people well. If you abandon the playing field, you can't win.
I think we should participate and speak up anywhere and everywhere that we can. It's not about exposure so much as getting the word out.
If this means we're going to get to ask our questions of candidates, don't pass it up.
I think we should participate and speak up anywhere and everywhere that we can. It's not about exposure so much as getting the word out.
If this means we're going to get to ask our questions of candidates, don't pass it up.
My view is that being a co-sponsor is distinct and different from being an endorser. If that is correct, then I think the Dallas Tea Party should be a co-sponsor even though we do not endorse either CNN or Tea Party Express. This is political life-it is a tough sport. We need to be getting our name and message out into the community and after all, this is about a Presidential debate. 2012 is just around the corner! Will the Dallas Tea Party be asking questions of the candidates? We should be, as co-sponsors. The Dallas Tea Party should participate.
by 
kllyhope2001 2011-04-27 15:29:17
Given your last statement that both CNN and the Tea Party Express are viewed negatively, why would we want to align ourselves with either, much less, both?
The unions and their allies are pulling out all the stops in Austin this weekend for a Wisconsin-style push to oppose budget cuts:
Cleverly, they have cast the options as being FOR SCHOOLS AND TEACHERS or AGAINST SCHOOLS AND TEACHERS.
As is usually the case, there's quite a bit more to it than that.
The teachers' unions argument that this is between being for schools or against schools obscures the true situation.
Those who oppose raiding Texas' emergency fund to maintain spending at current levels see the choice as instead between a sustainable education budget and an unsustainable budget.
An unsustainable education budget is not good for schools, for teachers or for students.
The other side to the argument will not be presented if patriots aren't present in Austin on Saturday.
What do you think about a counter-demonstration? Please weigh in below.
By 2011-03-08 15:13:32
by Jeffrey.Keech 2011-03-08 15:58:34
I would like to particpate in a counter demonstration. I can not go to Austin saturday however. Can we do something in Dallas. Are the unions protesting here in the DFW area also?
So sad to learn of the Austin protest so late, cannot go. I am for protesting in the streets, I think it is very positive for people to see. Of course if you are against the unions, you have to be against the schools but more then that---the kids. God Bless the Guv. He is ONE who has truely taken up the cause. We need to back him publicly. And we need 10,000 more with his guts
Fellow Coordinators:
As y'all are probably aware, Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins has clamped down on speech critical of the Commissioner's Court. Under the rules, citizens are supposed to be given three minutes to speak their mind in Commissioner's Court. On Tuesday, one speaker after another had their right to speak smashed by Judge Jenkins' gavel.
Details and video here:
http://DallasTeaParty.org/4025/
Should Judge Jenkins' actions be allowed to stand unchallenged? If not, what do y'all think ought to be done in response? Please weigh in in the comments below.
By 2011-02-23 09:12:04
Anyone that was in commissioner%u2019s court on Tuesday, as I was, should have been outraged at Jenkins use of the gavel to silence the citizens of Dallas County. Any attempt to block any reasonable constructive criticism should not be taken lightly or allowed to continue. In my opinion this is a call for immediate action. We should demand that any rule that may exist as the judge stated should be stricken from the rules. We should continue to demand the truth on Bruce Sherbets resignation. Hopefully we can have a massive protest on both issues soon. I realize a weekday morning is hard to get folks out but I believe this is a must and citizens must respond to the call.
I'm not certain that contacting Legislators at the state level would do any good regarding the insane power grab by Dallas County Commissioners and Judges. However; it might do some good to request an investigation of the whole Bruce Sherbet and the prior and subsequent actions by Jenkins and Price at the Federal level (where free speech rights would actually be contested if court action is warranted). Personally, I'm exhausted and outraged with the antics of these unrepresentative county buffoons. Suburban Dallas has long been oppressed and taxed into penury to support a dieing central Dallas and the constituencies of these morons. Would that there were someway for the suburban cities and towns to annex themselves to an adjacent county, and cut off our funding of this self dealing political incest.
We might start circulating recall petitions for these self serving little bureaucrats? Certainly doing so would put all their subsequent actions under even more scrutiny and perhaps even shake loose a few 'insiders' willing to roll over on these people.
Just an FYI for those of us who are starting to research who has jurisdiction and oversight of the Commissioners Court. "The county court has appellate jurisdiction over JP and municipal court cases (for municipal court cases, this may involve a trial de novo if the lower court is not a "court of record"), exclusive jurisdiction over "Class A" and "Class B" misdemeanors (these offenses can involve jail time), and concurrent jurisdiction over civil cases where the amount in controversy is moderately sized." Let's work together on this folks!
Since the county judge is also responsible for presiding over the Commissioners Court (the main executive and legislative body of the county), in most counties the Texas Legislature has established county courts at law to relieve the county judge of judicial duties. In most counties
Since the county judge is also responsible for presiding over the Commissioners Court (the main executive and legislative body of the county), in most counties the Texas Legislature has established county courts at law to relieve the county judge of judicial duties. In most counties
We need to find out the process, and jurisdictional points involved. Then we need to begin the recall process against Mr. Jenkins, AND Mr. J.W. Price. This kind of behavior is straight out of the Chicago playbook. Look folks, there is a battle going out there for control of this country! We are still using the Marquess of Queensbury rules, while our opponents are street fighting. It's like using spaghetti against a stick. We have to out Acorn, Acorn! No more playing nice. We have to get in these people's faces, and where they live, and TELL them we will not be stolen from (unions, and PE's), nor dictated to any more. I for one, am sick and tired of paying for their incompetence, and arrogance!
We must replace these Leftist demagogues with people who under stand little things like budgets, payrolls, and limited revenue with which to work. It's no longer a case of "what would _____do", it's now "what will we do", going forward. Is it worth fighting for?
We must replace these Leftist demagogues with people who under stand little things like budgets, payrolls, and limited revenue with which to work. It's no longer a case of "what would _____do", it's now "what will we do", going forward. Is it worth fighting for?
I believe the Judge's actions should be challenged. Let it wait and these same actions will keep biting us in our rear ends. Time to stand up for our rights while we are able. That said because last night he stopped several from Standing up for their (our) rights.
I was not able to get into the court Tuesday--it was full when I arrived. So I didn't know what words were spoken that Jenkins cut off. Is it permitted to speak and criticize the rules and actions, rather than a person? Is Jenkins within his right to do this? I think we should make it clear that we suspect racism and/or potential voter fraud from the action against Bruce. Is is feasible that we could complain to someone, like the Secretary of State? The least we should do is keep these actions before the public and also keep a log to bring up at the next city and/or county elections.
When it comes to taking back our nation, the Neighborhood Coordinators are the 'front line' troops. Every Tea Party Patriot and Common Sense Citizen is encouraged to seriously consider serving as a Neighborhood Coordinator. You can find everything you need to know at the following links:
1. ''Your Mission, Should You Decide to Accept It...''
2. ''What is a Neighborhood Coordinator?''
3. ''I'm Interested in Serving as a Neighborhood Coordinator, BUT...''
4. The ONE Rule for Neighborhood Coordinators
5. A Word on Playing Well With Others
6. The Dallas Tea Party Neighborhood Coordinator's Overview
By 2010-12-31 18:46:26
Congratulations for stepping up to take a leadership role within your local neighborhood!
It's a big responsibility, but it can also be very rewarding. The Common Sense Citizens' Network exists to provide you with information and resources to help you succeed in this critically-important role. Here are a few resources you should find useful:
1. How to Plan and Conduct Your First Meeting
2. Tony Johnston's Blueprint for Neighborhood Coordination
3. The Neighborhoods Project - Coordinator's Guide
By 2010-12-31 17:48:23
Ken, I believe the success of the Tea Party movement was because we were all united in an effort to opposed policies we did not agree with. We should continue with that as our main purpose. If we decide that education on individual candidates would be helpful to our members, than we should do that. However, let's stop short of endorsing any particular individual. There is value being unified for or against policies of the Federal Government.
Thanks,
Ralph Goin
Thanks,
Ralph Goin
PLEASE CHECK ALL THAT APPLY. THANK YOU!
Something you'd like not listed? Please share your ideas in the comments below.
By 2010-12-26 14:34:22
All of those courses sound great...it was really hard to only select a few.
I have considerable experience as a technical writer, and creating user manuals and training presentations in powerpoint. I have not worked with any of the programs that create animated online courses. I would like to volunteer to assist with creating training guides/manuals if that help is needed. Also, I know that I am very opinionated, but when I'm doing technical writing on someone else's material, I represent their ideas, not my own.
I look forward to attending these courses. Also, I am only available to attend training in evenings and week-ends, so I hope that if you have some of them on week-days, that they can also be offered during non-work hours.
Best always,
Gail Spurlock
I have considerable experience as a technical writer, and creating user manuals and training presentations in powerpoint. I have not worked with any of the programs that create animated online courses. I would like to volunteer to assist with creating training guides/manuals if that help is needed. Also, I know that I am very opinionated, but when I'm doing technical writing on someone else's material, I represent their ideas, not my own.
I look forward to attending these courses. Also, I am only available to attend training in evenings and week-ends, so I hope that if you have some of them on week-days, that they can also be offered during non-work hours.
Best always,
Gail Spurlock
1. Saul Alinsky: A primer on the strategy and tactics of Rules for Radicals and how we can apply them to everyday Tea Party life.
2.Public Employee unions: No other force is driving the expansion of the reach, power, and cost of government on all levels like public employee unions. Their pensions, benefits and work rules are bankrupting all levels of government. They are ferocious gluttons for our tax dollars and they recycle them to elect public officials dedicated to the expansion and power of government and the diminishment of the people. They are the chief foes of the Tea Party and they will grow in viciousness as their position is increasingly threatened. What is the history of public employee unions? Why are they so destructive? What strategies can the Tea Party employ minimize their destructive impact and regain our liberty?
3.Regulation: One of the gravest threats to liberty over the next several years will not come from lawmakers, but from regulator. How can we f
2.Public Employee unions: No other force is driving the expansion of the reach, power, and cost of government on all levels like public employee unions. Their pensions, benefits and work rules are bankrupting all levels of government. They are ferocious gluttons for our tax dollars and they recycle them to elect public officials dedicated to the expansion and power of government and the diminishment of the people. They are the chief foes of the Tea Party and they will grow in viciousness as their position is increasingly threatened. What is the history of public employee unions? Why are they so destructive? What strategies can the Tea Party employ minimize their destructive impact and regain our liberty?
3.Regulation: One of the gravest threats to liberty over the next several years will not come from lawmakers, but from regulator. How can we f
I completely understand and agree that True the Vote, How the Texas State Legislature Works, and The Road to the Primaries are all important, but w/o growing and maintaining our base, none of that will matter. I believe, to effectively keep the pressure/heat on, we need training in the use of social media networking and email marketing tools to grow our membership. (like the meetings we started in early 09 at the Dallas Trade Center w/Kat & Ken) I also believe the Hispanic community can be won over if we just had some training in how best to reach them.
by anonymous (BFE) 2010-12-28 10:18:39
Fellow Coordinators -
We're moving forward with planning of the Feb. 25-26 event.
The event will take place in North Texas, likely at a hotel or conference center, and we're shooting for an attendance of about 150 local coordinators.
We need your help in laying out the curriculum.
What training topics would you like to see presented?
Please share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below. Thank you.
By 2010-12-23 17:31:48
by 
Julie McCarty 2010-12-23 18:10:56
#1: public speaking (press, media). Also social media, fundraising ideas.
I can't get any of my neighbors motivated to help increase membership in our local Arlington Tea Party. They all say, "I'm going to vote a straight Republican ticket." But, no one wants to do the walking, or they want to come be the supervisor of the operation. I've been in business since I graduated from college. I can run the deal. Every one is to important to do the walking.
Bottom line, we need to grow our membership.
Melvin
Bottom line, we need to grow our membership.
Melvin
page VI of the Constitution pamphlet emphasizes education which is necessary to keep a free country. I am promoting a neighborood caucus in my precinct 3258. It might be tough to start but it is necessary to get a long lasting and effective program that will replace the current political fiasco. Changing politicians will only extend our misery. We have to change the political system and reinvigorate the real Constitution (Bill of Rights). Walking by itself will not come close to solving the problem. public speaking (press, media). Also social media, fundraising ideas do not solve the problem. Reagan was great. But after 30 years the problem actually got worse. Good poiticians do not solve the problem. We must educate the people. Again read the Constitution pamphlet page VI.
by CitizenJane 2010-12-24 00:23:21
We have to engage the youth. See if the Baylor YCT will participate. They have lots of good ideas. Without the youth, we are sunk. The Constitution, founding principles must be taught to our children.
As the saying goes, "IT'S ABOUT THE TAXES, STUPID" We need FairTax training. It is bizarre that most Tea Party volunteers don't know taxation basics other than their personal experiences, which probably does not include knowing the corruption of the current tax code.
We absolutely need the youth. We need a new approach to reach them. As we saw in Dallas County, knocking on doors and making phone calls does not work with them. Let's find out how to approach young people. What do they want to hear? What projects might they want to work on? What gets their attention, and what motivates them? How do we educate them about the Constitution, freedom and liberty?
This could be the most important event the Dallas Tea Party has coordinated thus far. It is time to take the next step. We have gathered a critical mass and effected real change in the election. The tea party members now need some more short term goals. We should identify a number of civic actions that can be executed at the local level. Ideas could include:
1. starting local constitutional education classes
2. focus on youth outreach and starting tea party groups at high schools and colleges.
3. starting Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT's).
4. tap our resources for political expertise and hold candidate training sessions to prepare the next generation of candidates who will represent The People.
5. start building a team of dedicated resources to prepare for 2012 election.
You have my full support with whatever is needed.
- Joe
1. starting local constitutional education classes
2. focus on youth outreach and starting tea party groups at high schools and colleges.
3. starting Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT's).
4. tap our resources for political expertise and hold candidate training sessions to prepare the next generation of candidates who will represent The People.
5. start building a team of dedicated resources to prepare for 2012 election.
You have my full support with whatever is needed.
- Joe
Grass-root independent press and media: sources, methods, technology, legal status, coordination.
by CitizenJane 2010-12-24 00:26:16
To include: step-by-step how to make use of FOIA, and how to get press credentials.
Please consider getting someone like K. Carl Smith, with www.conservativemessenger.org or Apostle Claver with www.ragingelephants.org to explain to us how to energize the black community to vote consertative. Both seem to have good ideas on educating the blacks that they really are conservative.
How about some basic training in principles of economics, political economy, money & banking, and Federal Reserve facts? It's readily apparent that the vast majority of the American public is completely clueless in this area and is so easily hoodwinked by politicians, so-called economic "experts," goldbugs and the Jim Cramers of the world.
Even if the instructor just stood up, said "All money is debt," and sat down, he would impart more knowledge than 95% of the public understands.
Even if the instructor just stood up, said "All money is debt," and sat down, he would impart more knowledge than 95% of the public understands.
by CitizenJane 2010-12-24 00:30:59
Form a go-to financial advisory group that can help the rest of us decipher budgets, ask the right questions, submit the right FOIA requests to get answers to budget questions. Most of us are woefully ignorant on these matters, and don't have the time to become experts.
Primary Patriots Union Initiatives
Fighting Labor Unions %u2013 Labor unions are one of the two greatest problems in terms of forcing the nation into collectivism, leftist ideologies and government (taxpayer) bankruptcy. Unions have destroyed American manufacturing and are fast destroying state and federal budgets. To address the leftist juggernaut in America, we must address the stranglehold unions have on manufacturing, state and federal government and education. In the Union Division, we must focus on...
* End union-bid only government contracts
* Pass Right-to-Work laws in all "forced unionization" states
* Force private sector unions to represent ALL members in their political giving
* Eliminate Public Sector Labor Unions altogether
(more detail)
Repairing a Broken Justice System %u2013 Our current corrupt justice system is the other of the two largest threats to freedom and liberty in America. Like the labor movement, trial law
Fighting Labor Unions %u2013 Labor unions are one of the two greatest problems in terms of forcing the nation into collectivism, leftist ideologies and government (taxpayer) bankruptcy. Unions have destroyed American manufacturing and are fast destroying state and federal budgets. To address the leftist juggernaut in America, we must address the stranglehold unions have on manufacturing, state and federal government and education. In the Union Division, we must focus on...
* End union-bid only government contracts
* Pass Right-to-Work laws in all "forced unionization" states
* Force private sector unions to represent ALL members in their political giving
* Eliminate Public Sector Labor Unions altogether
(more detail)
Repairing a Broken Justice System %u2013 Our current corrupt justice system is the other of the two largest threats to freedom and liberty in America. Like the labor movement, trial law
What are the boundaries for our ability to inform without running afoul of not supporting any particular issue or candidate.
Some times its so obvious that one of the candidates violates our core principle. So, can we say that and let the chips fall where they may? etc.???
Also, what about a session which reviews our 5 principles and possibly adding a sixth for open government.
Some times its so obvious that one of the candidates violates our core principle. So, can we say that and let the chips fall where they may? etc.???
Also, what about a session which reviews our 5 principles and possibly adding a sixth for open government.
Attention all Friends, Neighbors and Neighborly types:
By popular request, we are organizing a two-day tea party organizer retreat on February 25th and 26th in Dallas.
The event will be open to North Texas-area tea party organizers and individuals wanting to learn more about being tea party organizers in North Texas, but unfortunately, seats are limited. As much as we love everyone, we may not have enough space for everyone who wants to particpate.
Participants in these classes will be learning how to:
- GROW your local tea party group with new members and new ideas;
- FOSTER election turnout in your precincts and districts;
- CONNECT, ENLIGHTEN and ENGAGE your neighbors with PROVEN grassroots techniques.
- EMPOWER and ENCOURAGE your members toward real reform--and, above all...
- HAVE A WONDERFUL TIME along the way.
This will be a wonderful opportunity to meet and fellowship with like-minded tea partiers while learning some new skills.
If this event gives you a nice warm fuzzy feeling inside, you are invited to join us on the 25th and 26th of February.
Will you come and join us?
Please let us know in the comments below.
By 2010-12-19 18:44:07
JolineAttention all Local Coordinators, Grassroots Commandos and other Troublemakers:
By popular demand, we are organizing a two-day, FULLY-PACKED, grassroots training boot camp on February 25th and 26th in Dallas!
The event will be open to North Texas-area Neighborhood Coordinators and individuals seriously interested in serving as Neighborhood Coordinators in North Texas, but seats are limited. Please DO NOT INVITE anyone who is NOT a Neighborhood Coordinator or a serious candidate for service as a Neighborhood Coordinator. This event is not for tourists.
Participants in these classes will be learning how to:
- SUPERCHARGE your neighborhood group with new members and new ideas;
- MAXIMIZE election turnout in your precincts and districts;
- CONNECT, INFORM and ENGAGE your neighbors with PROVEN grassroots techniques.
- TRAIN, ENERGIZE and ACTIVATE your members toward real reform.
- BUILD and MAINTAIN effective coalitions with natural allies
- GENERATE and FOSTER a healthy level of confusion, disorientation and general discombobulation within the political establishment at all times--and, above all...
- HAVE A GREAT TIME along the way.
We're talkin' full-throttle, rubber-meets-the-road, GET 'ER DONE.
If that's not what you're all about, then this isn't the event for you--but if it is, this is where you need to be on the 25th and 26th of February.
So, what's it gonna be? You in or what?
Let us know in the comments below.
By 2010-12-17 18:52:22
Count me in! I am committing to center my attentions on MY neighborhood in 2011! I commit to put to work those "best practices" that the successful TP coordinators are willing to share with me. Somtimes I have to hear the same thing several times before it becomes habit but 2011 WILL bring success in my community for a gathering of self-reliant individuals to take an active part in our city and our local government. Thanks to DTP for continuing to help us all!
Until recently I was an active coordinator, but family/businees obligations forced me to go passive. My zip is a tough nut to crack. I and others have tried to "light the fire", to no avail.
At other BootCamp events I found no help for this sort of neighborhood. I guess the others that have tried here had the same results. In the Broden primary campaign I walked the local streets and talked to many people that were enthusiastic about Broden. But they *would not* let us put a sign in their yard.
Someone in the training game needs to research this problem.
Also - Pasive supporters are valuable to the Tea Parties. There are 10 to 20 passives for every active and we vote. Find a way to remind us our help is appreciated, too.
If you have any BootCamp attendees from this zip, and are willing to warn them about this problem, give them ny email address and I will share whatever I can, but remember that I have very limited time these days.
Regards,
LB
At other BootCamp events I found no help for this sort of neighborhood. I guess the others that have tried here had the same results. In the Broden primary campaign I walked the local streets and talked to many people that were enthusiastic about Broden. But they *would not* let us put a sign in their yard.
Someone in the training game needs to research this problem.
Also - Pasive supporters are valuable to the Tea Parties. There are 10 to 20 passives for every active and we vote. Find a way to remind us our help is appreciated, too.
If you have any BootCamp attendees from this zip, and are willing to warn them about this problem, give them ny email address and I will share whatever I can, but remember that I have very limited time these days.
Regards,
LB
I'm in! But I noticed at the GOP open mic night after the election, that a number of the GOP precinct chairs do not feel adequately trained. It would make sense to include them in this training. Also, I would like some advice on breaking up a precinct into smaller responsibilites, like recruiting neighbors as something like a "block captain". This will help greatly when it comes to tasks like distributing door hanges. Maybe this is a good way to involve "passives".
Fellow Coordinators :
Based on the feedback from the prior question, it's clear that there is a significant difference of opinion on the question of whether Dallas Tea Party should get behind a particular candidate for Speaker of the Texas House.
In situations like these, where there is substantial difference of opinion on a major question, we have always done our very best to craft an approach that everyone can get behind, rather than forging ahead with some proposal supported by only a bare majority. Majority rule is just not what we do.
To that end, here are some alternate proposals, which are not mutually-exclusive:
1. Would you be in favor of the Dallas Tea Party explicitly calling for a change in the leadership in the Texas State House of Representatives?
2. In the last session, the House Democrats allied with 11 so-called 'moderate' House Republicans to select the Speaker. If the same system is employed again in this session, Joe Straus will be able to retain his seat with as few as 25 of the 99 House Republicans supporting him. Under a caucus process, the next Speaker would need to secure the support of at least 50 of the 99 House Republicans to win the speakership. So, here's the question :
Would you be in favor of the Dallas Tea Party explicitly supporting the use of a caucus process for selection of the Texas House Speaker?
3. Would you be in favor of the conduct of a poll of Dallas Tea Party members over their own individual choices in the Speakers' race and publication of the results of that poll?
Please share your comments below. Thank you.
By 2010-11-11 10:32:29
by Kelly Sibley Cooper 2010-11-11 11:34:15
Yes, yes and yes!
1. YES - explicit call for change in leadership in position of Texas Speaker of the House
2. YES - explicitly support the use of a caucus process for Republican members of the house
3. YES - conduct a poll soliciting responses from Tea Party membership and publish the results.
Good three-part strategy that helps maintain our clearly defined role as a Tea Party with less chance of misunderstanding. THANKS!!
2. YES - explicitly support the use of a caucus process for Republican members of the house
3. YES - conduct a poll soliciting responses from Tea Party membership and publish the results.
Good three-part strategy that helps maintain our clearly defined role as a Tea Party with less chance of misunderstanding. THANKS!!
Yes, yes and yes!
(1)Taking a position on the Speaker position is not partisan. All candidates will be Republican. We need to walk our talk.
(2) The Dems always caucus and come out united on such issues. Republicans should have the opportunity to do the same.
(2) I'm willing to vote and have my name associated with the candidate I support.
(1)Taking a position on the Speaker position is not partisan. All candidates will be Republican. We need to walk our talk.
(2) The Dems always caucus and come out united on such issues. Republicans should have the opportunity to do the same.
(2) I'm willing to vote and have my name associated with the candidate I support.
Here's my take - the Tea Party should not "endorce" a particular candidate - but the priciples that a candidate should stand upon. Yes, We need a change in leadership - and we should make that perfectly clear. The Tea Party, in my opinion, needs to be completely OPEN and base its stands on principles, not individuals. WHO we stand behind, is not as important as WHAT THEY STAND UP FOR. We need to present ourselves not as a "Party" but just ordinary americans. It's almost as though we're a second Republican Party - when we should just be American Citizens making our voice be heard. Yes, we need to stand up for change in leadership, yes we should caucus, but call for a specific person to be elected is going too far in my opinion. Let's let our leaders choose the directions they go (Dems/Repubs alike) and make sure they know where we stand! That way, they know what they need to do to stay in office.
1. Calling for a change in the leadership in the House? Definitely YES. Comparing the bills that were killed with Strauss vs previous Speakers provide proof that Strauss does NOT align with DTP priniciples.
2. Should DTP support a caucus process for Speaker? YES. There is a sure majority of GOP over Dems and the speaker should be a GOP.
3. Posting results of DTP members' choice for Speaker - why not? Surely this would jump start individuals into their duty to our Republic - that of researching the candidates on their own before casting a vote (fingers crossed!)Just because I have had face time w/Paxton does not tell me that he is the "best" candidate in my opinion. I hate being told by neighbors - "oh, I know that candidate and he/she is a really swell person". Most politicians are not elected b/c they're social outcasts. But they SHOULD be elected b/c of their upfront stand on the issues - which takes research.
2. Should DTP support a caucus process for Speaker? YES. There is a sure majority of GOP over Dems and the speaker should be a GOP.
3. Posting results of DTP members' choice for Speaker - why not? Surely this would jump start individuals into their duty to our Republic - that of researching the candidates on their own before casting a vote (fingers crossed!)Just because I have had face time w/Paxton does not tell me that he is the "best" candidate in my opinion. I hate being told by neighbors - "oh, I know that candidate and he/she is a really swell person". Most politicians are not elected b/c they're social outcasts. But they SHOULD be elected b/c of their upfront stand on the issues - which takes research.
I am in favor of both the pole and the aucus approach AND stating the back room method explicitly that was used to manipulate Joe Strauss in. This is disgusting power broker politics at its worst and above all needs to be put on the table. All Coordinators should put this out once the decision is made. And any current electee who made any previous back room deal needs to be exposed NOW.
The Tea Party should be about principles .... not individuals. Selection #1 is best. Let the Legislature decide methodology and specifically who. But demand that we have a new House leader who exemplifies principles of less Government, Lower Taxes, stronger border and immigration regulation, State rights, and a more pro business economic environment.
1. I do not like the idea of explicitly calling for a change in leadership of the state house.
2. I support the use of a caucus to select the next Speaker. Straus could have been elected speaker in the prior session with only 2 or 3 republican votes. And in that case would the GOP still be in control of the house?
3. I would absolutely be in favor of a poll of all the dallas tea party members over their own individual choices. That is a great idea. That is how we should let our preferences be known, not through any type of formal endorsement.
2. I support the use of a caucus to select the next Speaker. Straus could have been elected speaker in the prior session with only 2 or 3 republican votes. And in that case would the GOP still be in control of the house?
3. I would absolutely be in favor of a poll of all the dallas tea party members over their own individual choices. That is a great idea. That is how we should let our preferences be known, not through any type of formal endorsement.
I think the Dallas TEA Party should invite all parties to sign on to our values and goals. Those who don't are not even on the radar screen as eligible for support, but are eligible for dissent. All parties should know there will be hell to pay if they fraudulently represent themselves as adherents to our values. We are the majority and should damn well start acting like it. I agree with #1 and the idea of a caucus process. Kill the RINOsaurs, politically, that is.
Come on DTP members! I believe the Dallas Tea Party should explicitly call for a change in the leadership in the Texas State House of Representatives. To that end it would also be smart supporting the use of a caucus process for selection of the Texas House Speaker. We are 1 large loud voice... let's use it!!
by 
Jandjluster 2010-11-11 14:39:09
#1 Yes. When our leaders do not respond to the people and use tricks and maneuvers to get things done, they should be replaced.
#2 Yes
#3 Yes
#2 Yes
#3 Yes
1 yes
2. Don't know enough to make an intelligent opinion, but only if caucus has been done before would I suggest it be used. I don't think cramming stuff down people's throat works very well.
3 Sure, but I don't think most people don't know enough to make a good decision
2. Don't know enough to make an intelligent opinion, but only if caucus has been done before would I suggest it be used. I don't think cramming stuff down people's throat works very well.
3 Sure, but I don't think most people don't know enough to make a good decision
Let's push for a change of leadership through a caucus. I hesitate to do a poll, because the published results will be seen by some as an endorsement, and I still believe that our credibility long term will be preserved if we stay with educating the public and trusting that the education will be enough to help them pick conservative candidates.
Ken, you asked:
> 1. Would you be in favor of the Dallas Tea Party explicitly calling for a change in the leadership in the Texas State House of Representatives?
YES.
> 2. In the last session, the House Democrats allied with 11 so-called 'moderate' House Republicans to select the Speaker. If the same system is employed again in this session, Joe Straus will be able to retain his seat with as few as 25 of the 99 House Republicans supporting him. Under a caucus process, the next Speaker would need to secure the support of at least 50 of the 99 House Republicans to win the speakership. So, here's the question :
> Would you be in favor of the Dallas Tea Party explicitly supporting the use of a caucus process for selection of the Texas House Speaker?
YES.
> 3. Would you be in favor of the conduct of a poll of Dallas Tea Party members over their own individual choices in the Speakers' race and publication of the results of that poll?
YES.
> 1. Would you be in favor of the Dallas Tea Party explicitly calling for a change in the leadership in the Texas State House of Representatives?
YES.
> 2. In the last session, the House Democrats allied with 11 so-called 'moderate' House Republicans to select the Speaker. If the same system is employed again in this session, Joe Straus will be able to retain his seat with as few as 25 of the 99 House Republicans supporting him. Under a caucus process, the next Speaker would need to secure the support of at least 50 of the 99 House Republicans to win the speakership. So, here's the question :
> Would you be in favor of the Dallas Tea Party explicitly supporting the use of a caucus process for selection of the Texas House Speaker?
YES.
> 3. Would you be in favor of the conduct of a poll of Dallas Tea Party members over their own individual choices in the Speakers' race and publication of the results of that poll?
YES.
The Dallas Tea Party is getting TOO
CLOSE to Endorsements! I'm concerned about this trend!!!
1. OK Only WITHOUT endorsing or
recommending an individual.
Only give pros & cons, and
RECORDS of candidates!
2. Let Dems & Repubs each caucus
using Secret Ballot.
3. Yes
CLOSE to Endorsements! I'm concerned about this trend!!!
1. OK Only WITHOUT endorsing or
recommending an individual.
Only give pros & cons, and
RECORDS of candidates!
2. Let Dems & Repubs each caucus
using Secret Ballot.
3. Yes
1. The tea party is about politicians standing up for conservative principles and values. If they do not adhere to that, then we call 'em on it. So, absolutely YES on this one.
2. Yes.
3. Not sure this is necessary, but at least it would emphasize the principle that DTP does not endorse, yet members individually are free to do so.
2. Yes.
3. Not sure this is necessary, but at least it would emphasize the principle that DTP does not endorse, yet members individually are free to do so.
by CitizenJane 2010-11-13 23:04:29
Yes, yes, and yes!
Q # 1: Yes. We have an OBLIGATION to speak out against any person in office who is not supporting constitutional principles and/or our tea party platform.
Q # 2: I am not knowledgeable on the caucus, but I trust our tea party leadership if they feel that is best
Q # 3: Absolutely - as long as we provide info or links so they can learn about the candidates. I strongly disagree with those who assume our Tea Party members can't learn/be informed. That is expounding Progressive/Elitist idealogy. Tea Partiers are one who WANT to know. We can help them gain the facts.
Q # 2: I am not knowledgeable on the caucus, but I trust our tea party leadership if they feel that is best
Q # 3: Absolutely - as long as we provide info or links so they can learn about the candidates. I strongly disagree with those who assume our Tea Party members can't learn/be informed. That is expounding Progressive/Elitist idealogy. Tea Partiers are one who WANT to know. We can help them gain the facts.
by kllyhope2001 2010-11-14 04:22:33
Well hold on to your seats because I am going to say what I think. FRY Straus! Ethics charges are in the multiple numbers, basic extortion plans were recorded on phone and duh, in writing. Ken Paxton, we love you!
DO I think the Dallas Tea Party should get involved? Do large crickets have little crickets? Caucus, Caucus, here we come. Bye Bye Strausie scumsucker-oh I am sorry, I like catfish...
DO I think the Dallas Tea Party should get involved? Do large crickets have little crickets? Caucus, Caucus, here we come. Bye Bye Strausie scumsucker-oh I am sorry, I like catfish...
As of today, there are now three candidates in the race for Speaker of the Texas State House:
Joe Straus of San Antonio (YCT rating : 67%) is the incumbent Speaker.
Warren Chisum of Pampa (YCT rating : 80%) was the original challenger to Joe Straus.
Ken Paxton of Plano (YCT rating : 97%) is the second challenger to Straus' speakership.
In the past, we have not supported particular candidates for any office. We are restricted by law as to supporting particular candidates on a ballot, but the leadership election is a completely separate matter. We are relatively free, under the law, to select a particular candidate for Speaker and rally behind that candidate.
Whether we do so is up to you.
So, here are two questions for your consideration:
1. Should the Dallas Tea Party consider formally supporting a particular candidate for Speaker of the Texas House?
2. If you believe the Dallas Tea Party should formally support a particular candidate for Speaker, who do you support?
Please share your thoughts here : http://dtpcoordinators.mojo4m.com/3893/
By 2010-11-10 20:30:12
I support an effort from the Tea Party to influence state legislators to elect a conservative Speaker of the House. we need conservative people appointed to chairman positions of the most important committees. I don't know Ken Paxton, but the campaign I just worked for does not support Joe Straus.
I think we should endorse a candidate in this race. It's not telling voters who to vote for, it's telling our representatives what we want them to do. That's our duty and privilege.
We should wholeheartedly support Ken Paxton!!! He is my rep and I've been begging him to run! His record speaks for itself.
We should wholeheartedly support Ken Paxton!!! He is my rep and I've been begging him to run! His record speaks for itself.
I'm not sure if we should support a particular candidate or not. I don't know enough about the issue to make a decision, nor do I know enough about the candidates to make a choice. I think we should consider that most people are center right, not far right. We have to remember that we have to have the middle to win, and we really need to win over the next few months and years. We can't win with just the far right. If we alienate the middle, we lose.
by 
Lionking48 2010-11-10 22:39:37
Yes-- KEN PAXTON
I think Kensley Stewart's question/challenge is a good one. Thanks Kensley. IF we publicly express our preference for Speaker of the House, IS THAT CAMPAIGNING or ENDORSING? Since our code of conduct is clear about not campaigning or endorsing, HOW, if any way, is this different or acceptable? I want this clear to all of us before we move forward, because we will need to be able to explain this to others in the future. I want the most conservative person in as Speaker of the House, but can we approach this while maintaining our code of conduct? Maybe...
Is openly voicing our preference for Speaker acceptable because we the people are not the ones voting? We have as a Tea Party communicated with our representatives how to vote on issues and when to take action on our behalf, so this this more like instructing them to vote on our behalf? Help me. Poke holes in my argument, please. It is essential that we have a clear explanation of our decision before we move forward. Than
Is openly voicing our preference for Speaker acceptable because we the people are not the ones voting? We have as a Tea Party communicated with our representatives how to vote on issues and when to take action on our behalf, so this this more like instructing them to vote on our behalf? Help me. Poke holes in my argument, please. It is essential that we have a clear explanation of our decision before we move forward. Than
YES - let's support a candidate!
My review of the YCT information shows that Mr. Chisum and Mr. Paxton voted differently on 2 issues: a statewide ban on smoking in establishments, and whether to appoint a council to oversee managing the Permanent School Fund (removing it from the State Board of Education). For the accurate verbiage you can go to http://www.yct.org/files/YCT_81st_session_ratings.pdf
Based on the fact that, apparently, several TP people (from other areas of the State) like Straus, I don't know how effective it would be to find out where some other groups stand...but the last thing I want is to split the TP groups in Texas. Neither of the above issues are make or break for me so I can go either way.
BUT WE MUST OUST STRAUS!
My review of the YCT information shows that Mr. Chisum and Mr. Paxton voted differently on 2 issues: a statewide ban on smoking in establishments, and whether to appoint a council to oversee managing the Permanent School Fund (removing it from the State Board of Education). For the accurate verbiage you can go to http://www.yct.org/files/YCT_81st_session_ratings.pdf
Based on the fact that, apparently, several TP people (from other areas of the State) like Straus, I don't know how effective it would be to find out where some other groups stand...but the last thing I want is to split the TP groups in Texas. Neither of the above issues are make or break for me so I can go either way.
BUT WE MUST OUST STRAUS!
I just noticed that Melissa and I have the same basic idea about this -- that telling our representatives how to vote is not the same as us endording/campaigning for candidates running for office that we voters vote for.
Missed seeing that first time around, but glad someone else is thinking that way too.
What do the rest of you think?
Missed seeing that first time around, but glad someone else is thinking that way too.
What do the rest of you think?
We know Ken better because he's from our area. Warren Chisum would be much better than Straus, but we don't know Chisum simply because he's not from our area. Now, the most important thing--OUST STRAUS. And, we would need to make sure that if the rest of Texas does not agree with us, then, we need to do all we can to make sure that Straus does not get in.
If you can support someone, please do, either Ken Paxton or Warren Chisum. I don't know which would be a stronger contender against Strauss, but if you do, that should be the choice.
Joe Strauss must go. He represents everything that is wrong with the Republican Party.
Best regards,
Joe Strauss must go. He represents everything that is wrong with the Republican Party.
Best regards,
Should the DTP support a candidate for Speaker? Tough one because I don't know Warren Chisum but I do have experience with Ken Paxton and from conversations w/Ken, he has not shown to be afraid to stand up and out on constitutional principles. But what if DTP doesn't pick Ken to support? Tough call.
by kllyhope2001 2010-11-11 04:30:44
Oh Yea, let' start right away.
Fro what I have seen, Ken wants Chisum to do it. I don't care-let's dump the ))))Rhino now!!!!!!!!!!
Fro what I have seen, Ken wants Chisum to do it. I don't care-let's dump the ))))Rhino now!!!!!!!!!!
Like most citizens, I don't know the candidates, however I believe we should be for the one most constitutional which appears to be Paxton but with these 3 contingencies:
(1) that we are able to explain to our members why backing a leadership candidate is very different than backing a candidates on a ballot;
(2)that Paxton can realistically be elected by his peers (or will our endorsement help split the conservative votes, thus reelecting Strauss; and (3) does Paxton have the SKILLS and RESPECT to work well amongst the legislators? If yes to all the above, let's do it.
(1) that we are able to explain to our members why backing a leadership candidate is very different than backing a candidates on a ballot;
(2)that Paxton can realistically be elected by his peers (or will our endorsement help split the conservative votes, thus reelecting Strauss; and (3) does Paxton have the SKILLS and RESPECT to work well amongst the legislators? If yes to all the above, let's do it.
by 
dallasjarrod 2010-11-11 08:06:21
No, the DTP should not endorse a candidate for Speaker. We, as individuals, can and should endorse and/or support at candidate, but the DTP should stay neutral. Personally, I don't want a select few making decisions such as this for the entire Dallas Tea Party. I know for a fact that I'm on the same page with Ken, Katrina, and Phillip on who should be the next speaker, and I'm sure they won't be the only ones making this call, but it would still feel like they're making the decision.
Whomever the next Speaker is, he or she will have to work with Tea Party activists, since we helped reclaim a massive majority for the Republican Party, so it would behoove us to state our expectations and allow them to declare their intentions with regards to our desired outcome in the next session.
Having said all of that, as of right now, I'm going with Paxton. I believe that he will provide an excellent example of that "conservative leadership" is all about to voters heading into the next
Whomever the next Speaker is, he or she will have to work with Tea Party activists, since we helped reclaim a massive majority for the Republican Party, so it would behoove us to state our expectations and allow them to declare their intentions with regards to our desired outcome in the next session.
Having said all of that, as of right now, I'm going with Paxton. I believe that he will provide an excellent example of that "conservative leadership" is all about to voters heading into the next
Yes and Yes. We must identify those who are Rino's and those who betray us. It's not about personalities or "favorite sons." It's about people who will do the right thing, stand up for our principles, and not sell out or go along to get along. Joe Straus betrayed us. I went to Austin last session, several times, along with many others. We made calls, to Rick Perry and many others. You couldn't get anything done. We observed stalling tactics and antics on the floor. They made a mockery of sincere citizens concerned about illegal immigration. Joe Straus controlled the committees, the calendar, and the success or lack thereof of bills getting passed. Boot him out! Then, let's get behind whom we deem the best candidate for Texas.
A lot of excellent points made. I only have knowledge of Ken but he struck me as an honorable man and true to our conservative cause and his voting record supports that fact. I'm not impressed with Straus's record and I'm not thrilled with what I know about his tactics. I really don't want him to continue in the Speaker role. I agree that we don't want to split our winning TP team statewide but we worked too hard to bring about this majority to sit back and not provide support for a better House leader and one who will promote our values and those initiatives we strongly support and that we established as our foundational principles.
What you should be pushing for is a Republican-only caucus to select the speaker. Without that you are forcing Straus to align with the Democrats to retain his post - and he will do it. Forcing Straus to partner with the Dems will result in more Dems heading committees in 2011 and blocking more conservative legislation. Think it through, folks.
Yes, our movement must take action anywhere that doesn't conflict with the law. Instinct, and laziness will tell many Tea Party members that they should go with the Candidate with the highest YCT rating, but that may not necessarily result in a candidate that can garner enough votes to remove Strauss. Obviously, Joe Strauss is twisting arms, pulling every string, and undermining the other candidates in an effort to stay in power. This alone should disqualify him from consideration. We need to here what the objectives of all candidates will be if elevated to House Speaker. Strauss has eliminated himself from the competition for past grievous acts and the fact that he's already running down other candidates. We can all agree there is a candidate we can hate and oppose, what we need is to hear from the candidates, without them likewise running down Strauss, who we already recognize as someone to dangerous to remain Speaker.
Given the balance of those who support and those who oppose the DTP advocating in favor of a candidate for speaker, you may have stumbled upon what really the question. Arguably, the DTP should remain aloof from supporting candidates, and focus on policies and outcomes. However; it's overwhelmingly apparent that most Texans have no faith or trust in Joe Strauss. So, does opposing a candidate necessarily require that we, as the DTP, commit to an alternative candidate? Can't we simply advocate that Strauss not remain Speaker, and then give some direction and comparative information so that DTP members, as well as state TP members, can take action themselves? In hindsight, the DTP anointing any candidate might be a slippery slope. Doubtless, Strauss remaining Speaker would undermine so much of our hard work and achievements, and must be considered a threat. It's a tough call this one.
Absolutely,"yes" we (the Tea Party) should make a stand and support Ken Paxton as Speaker. He is an unwavering conservative - one of the few legislators who stood strong against Perry and Craddick on the margins tax increase several years back. He could not be bought off with a chairmanship. He stuck to his principles. In addition, Ken Paxton did not come from the Democratic Party as Chisum did and he is not a big spender as Chisum can be. This is our opportunity to demonstrate our strength and committment to the "true" conservative cause.
Suggest that as long as it is not Straus (or some other "compromise" RINO), let the Legislature define whether it is Chisum or Paxton, or even another with a high Conservative rating ready for leadership. But not Straus! He has acted against Tea Party principles and would continue to do so! Nor any others like him.
Ken Paxton for should be supported for the position of Speaker. I believe he is head and shoulder better than Joe Straus. It is time to move the RINO, Joe Straus, out of the position and at next election out of office. We need honest conservative representatives like Ken Paxton leading the the house.
yes we should root for Paxton.
This is not a direct ballot vote of the poeple so I dont see it as endorsing a candidate WHATSOEVER
We may be a "bit " conservative on this issue of making sure we dont endorse a candidate.
YES we should absolutely "root" for Paxton
This is not a direct ballot vote of the poeple so I dont see it as endorsing a candidate WHATSOEVER
We may be a "bit " conservative on this issue of making sure we dont endorse a candidate.
YES we should absolutely "root" for Paxton
Perhaps we should become informed about the particular candidates and support one of them. The most important thing is that Straus' is not the Speaker.
I just read a letter from State Rep Bryan Hughes, in which he withdrew his support for Straus. The letter described a call Mr. Hughes recieved from a member of Straus' leadership team, where Mr. Hughes was told that republican reps Erwin Cain and Dan
Flynn would be punished through the redistricting process for not supporting Straus', but that MR. Hughes had nothing to worry about as long as he supports Straus'.
This type of corruption must be stopped.
We need to do whatever we can to prevent Straus' from being the speaker in the next session.
I just read a letter from State Rep Bryan Hughes, in which he withdrew his support for Straus. The letter described a call Mr. Hughes recieved from a member of Straus' leadership team, where Mr. Hughes was told that republican reps Erwin Cain and Dan
Flynn would be punished through the redistricting process for not supporting Straus', but that MR. Hughes had nothing to worry about as long as he supports Straus'.
This type of corruption must be stopped.
We need to do whatever we can to prevent Straus' from being the speaker in the next session.
by Kelly Sibley Cooper 2010-11-11 10:34:07
Since this "endorsement" isn't for a ballot, and simply for the SUPER important role of speaker, I say YES lets make it known who we support; and KEN PAXTON all the way. I know him and have worked with him, he is by far the best choice. Prosper TP Coordinator.
Regarding question 1, "Should the Dallas Tea Party consider formally supporting a particular candidate for Speaker of the Texas House?", no. The Dallas Tea Party, as an organization, should not support a particular candidate for Speaker because our job is to educate voters to make informed decisions and motivate them to tell their elected officials what to do. Our officials are, after all, their servants.
However, as individuals we should, of course, choose and support a candidate for Speaker.
Thanks for asking!
However, as individuals we should, of course, choose and support a candidate for Speaker.
Thanks for asking!
Now that i see the endorsement from Rep. Jodie L. I trust her perspective. That plus the voting record...yes, Ken Paxton. and absolutely NO, for Straus!!! I say we through our TP support to them most conservative representative based on our 5 core values. it appears from the voting record...that would be Ken Paxton. Heritage Alliance and Empower Texans have done a great job tracking these politicians...that seals the deal for me. thanks to DTP leadership for staying on top of this when all are exhausted from working before the elections! I admire your efforts! keep on keeping on!
I think the tea party should remain primarily neutral. It does it's best work as a vehicle representing and supporting the IDEAS that we all ascribe to. Should it get into supporting specific candidates, I believe this would weaken the coalition. Try this: put out a straw poll in cases like this, and let the members decide by voting. Publish the results for what they are. THEN, remind the members that our strength is in our ideas, and beliefs. From those we must never waver. This way we all remain free to back people as we see fit, as long as they support our beliefs.
The Dallas TEA Party should be the loudest supporter for a Republican House Caucas electing their own Speaker and Leader. The other party should not be able or allowed to elected the leader of the opposing party. Once that is established I believe the TEA members can call their own representatives and "express" who is the best choice. Additionally, if the TEA Party backs ONE candidate for Speaker, then who is the campaign treasurer of the Political Action Committee?
Fellow Coordinators:
In the prior session of the Texas Legislature, the State House was almost evenly divided. The Republicans held a slim margin over the Democrats. A handful of liberal Republicans made a deal with the House Democrats. According to the deal, this group of liberal Republicans and the House Democrats would agree on a Speaker and would all get behind that candidate.
The group selected Rep. Joe Straus of San Antonio. Straus became Speaker and a leadership team mostly composed of liberal Republicans and House Democrats took control of the House Committees.
As one might expect, Straus' tenure as Speaker was a DISASTER for conservative policy. Straus and his lieutenants stopped most conservative bills from even receiving a hearing, much less a vote.
On Tuesday, Nov. 2, the people of Texas elected a whopping 99 Republicans to the Texas State House of Representatives.
Given the massive change in the composition of the State House, one might expect that there would be a change in leadership to a more conservative leadership team.
The Straus coalition is fighting hard to hold on to the reins of power. They will succeed if the Texas conservative grassroots don't put up a fight.
Where do you stand on this? Please weigh in below.
By 2010-11-07 10:33:57
time for a rally????
by Bill Eastland 2010-11-07 21:45:55
Yes, in Austin, preferably during freshman orientation (early December, I think), or the day before the session starts (Monday, January 10th), but it should stress first: The Republicans CAUCUS to choose a leader, and, second: members choose a CONSERVATIVE leader to be Speaker.
Voters don%u2019t want their Reps cutting deals with a Liberal Republican Speaker on the first vote of the legislature. Voters want their Reps to find a Conservative Republican Speaker who is qualified to effectively get conservative legislation out of committee and on the floor for a vote. Straus did not do that last session. The liberal media hopes the Republicans will be OK with Straus%u2014they ask him no hard questions. See audio http://blogs.chron.com/texaspolitics/archives/2010/11/chisum_says_spe.html
If our House Reps think that they can sell us on Straus%u2014they are out of touch and we need to get them back in touch with the electorate before the caucus. Straus%u2019 record this past legislative session was only a 52% conservative voting record This gives Straus a failing grade and is totally unacceptable. See Heritage Alliance%u2019s website, http://www.heritagealliance.com/members/takeaction.php?link=http://capwiz.com/heritagealliance/home/
We need our Hose R
If our House Reps think that they can sell us on Straus%u2014they are out of touch and we need to get them back in touch with the electorate before the caucus. Straus%u2019 record this past legislative session was only a 52% conservative voting record This gives Straus a failing grade and is totally unacceptable. See Heritage Alliance%u2019s website, http://www.heritagealliance.com/members/takeaction.php?link=http://capwiz.com/heritagealliance/home/
We need our Hose R
We need our House Reps who are committed to listening to their constituents in their district more than they want to be committed to a political game of signing a pledge card to the current Speaker, Joe Straus. Yes, we need our House reps to %u201Cchange course%u201D as our return to conservative legislation demands it.
The people of Texas want a Conservative speaker who will represent us with fiscal responsibililty, minimum government involvment in our lives and bring back Constitutional support and history in our schools. Stopping illegal immigration is critical in the State of Texas. Any 'un-ethical measures to vote anyone else into this office should be rejected!
Sincerely,
Jane Roberts
Sincerely,
Jane Roberts
This is the second most important level of government we need to fight for. If we let Staus remain as speaker we are setting Texas up to turn Blue, even though conservative republicans are in the majority. We need to do all we can to change this or this state will be headed for disaster like all the rest.
by Bill Eastland 2010-11-07 13:50:39
No, the State is the most important level of government. It is the states that created the federal government, not the other way around.
by kllyhope2001 2010-11-07 15:26:23
I am dismayed to see leaders who have signed pledges to support Straus. These are people I have admired and thought to be free thinkers. There was a Rice University member named Dr. Mark Jones who wrote about the purchase of votes from various members. I have also received a refutation from Stefani Carter and she was definitely Tea-approved. I am looking for good solid answers about this situation. I dislike the fact that Straus kept major bills from being presented last session-bills of great importance to many citizens in this area. The voter ID bill and the bill requiring a mother who was considering abortion to view a sonogram of her baby were both conveniently tabled and never saw the light of day. I remember that in the race for the 66th district promises being made that these were of utmost importance. Well, I wonder if that is changed now that the 66th has been filled...
by CitizenJane 2010-11-07 15:33:36
OUST STRAUS! We need to form constituent groups to meet with each of our reps who have committed to vote for Straus or who are on the fence, and who campaigned as conservatives (Button, Driver, Carter, and Sheets come to mind) to give them an opportunity to do the right thing. If they make the wrong choice, we can get an early start on recruiting their replacements.
by Bill Eastland 2010-11-07 16:39:59
Yes, pressure should be put on Republican legislators to elect a 'conservative' speaker, but the more important action is to insist they CAUCUS as a PARTY and elect a LEADER whom they all commit to vote for as Speaker. Otherwise, 50 (or 51) DEMOCRATS along with as few as 26 Republicans will choose Straus. This means we have to convince 73 Republicans to vote for a different candidate, an impossible task. The best chance of success is to convince 50 Republicans (IN CAUCUS) to vote for a different candidate--like is done in the US House.
by Bill Eastland 2010-11-07 16:43:49
Oops, I meant *76* Rs will have to vote against the Speaker.
No compromising with the liberals. We need a conservative leader who will push conservative legislation on the floor for a vote. We need voter ID legislation passed immediately. I witnessed rampant voter fraud in the last election. If it was bad this year, just wait until 2012.
Given the recent election, where 99 new Republican members were sent to the Texas House, common sense would expect that a new vote would be taken to elect a new Speaker. Let's tell the old group of "liberal Republicans and House Democrats" that the people have spoken and we want a BALANCED agenda that includes CONSERVATIVE issues in the next session of Texas legislature! Let's choose a NEW SPEAKER now.
The voters overwhelming spoke and they have said that they dismiss the liberal and middle of the road politics that have controlled the state House. It's time that the members of the Texas House put in a leader that will lead on the conservative values that those in our State hold dear.
in the words of my fellow patriot, Jane Roberts, below: The people of Texas want a Conservative speaker who will represent us with fiscal responsibililty, minimum government involvment in our lives and bring back Constitutional support and history in our schools. Stopping illegal immigration is critical in the State of Texas. Any 'un-ethical measures to vote anyone else into this office should be rejected!
I want to help any way i can!
That is where i weigh in.
I worked the Richardson Call center trying to get Broden elected over maggot johnson. I worked as a poll watch at the Ballot Board and have no less than 15 incidents to be reported to the Secretary of State (the Dallas County Ballot Board/Singnature Verification).
In short - i have never felt so much fear for the future of this country!
ALSO - my statements are as strong against the republicans as they are against the dems. Both are filthy with corruption. Both are very accountable for the state of our country. And there is more than enough blame for both. The reps (to be frank) sitting on their ass for 8 years caused this country to reach out for this holacaust of an administration!!! The reps call and call, asking for money. I will never support their incompetence again!
THIS ELECTION WAS THE PEOPLE SHOUTING - FINALLY - THAT WE HATE THE REPS and the dems!!! The COUNTRY MUST BE SAVED! It WAS NOT a vote for re
That is where i weigh in.
I worked the Richardson Call center trying to get Broden elected over maggot johnson. I worked as a poll watch at the Ballot Board and have no less than 15 incidents to be reported to the Secretary of State (the Dallas County Ballot Board/Singnature Verification).
In short - i have never felt so much fear for the future of this country!
ALSO - my statements are as strong against the republicans as they are against the dems. Both are filthy with corruption. Both are very accountable for the state of our country. And there is more than enough blame for both. The reps (to be frank) sitting on their ass for 8 years caused this country to reach out for this holacaust of an administration!!! The reps call and call, asking for money. I will never support their incompetence again!
THIS ELECTION WAS THE PEOPLE SHOUTING - FINALLY - THAT WE HATE THE REPS and the dems!!! The COUNTRY MUST BE SAVED! It WAS NOT a vote for re
We (the voters) called for change and WE need that change to stop this spending and giving our money away. Keeping the same leadership is a MISTAKE, IF they were not willing to fix it then WHAT makes you think they will NOW.
We need conservative leadership, we conservative control over the whole process. We have to make Government smaller, stop the bleeding at the border and stop the crazy giveaway's that are breaking us.
School Tax's have to cut, spending on "School projects" stopped. Some school district here in Dallas country spent $53 mill on a football stadium for 4 games a YEAR...what is wrong with that??? ITS my money...
The old American dream was owning your own home, THAT cannot happen in todays world, YOU pay for it, you get the deed in YOUR name and then OWE the TAX man $400 a month for the rest of YOUR Life or they TAKE YOUR "DREAM" away from you....
We need conservative leadership, we conservative control over the whole process. We have to make Government smaller, stop the bleeding at the border and stop the crazy giveaway's that are breaking us.
School Tax's have to cut, spending on "School projects" stopped. Some school district here in Dallas country spent $53 mill on a football stadium for 4 games a YEAR...what is wrong with that??? ITS my money...
The old American dream was owning your own home, THAT cannot happen in todays world, YOU pay for it, you get the deed in YOUR name and then OWE the TAX man $400 a month for the rest of YOUR Life or they TAKE YOUR "DREAM" away from you....
We have fought hard to elect a conservative majority of Republicans to the Texas House. Therefore, we must have a conservative Speaker of the House.
Straus is a RINO who is much too closely associated on many issues with the Democrats. The last legislative session in which he was in control was a disaster for conservatism.
The voters spoke their minds last Tuesday night, and the message was clear: In order to move the Republican Party away from being RINO's and into the conservative camp, we must have a conservative Speaker.
I believe Rep. Warren Chisum has won that right because of his principled conservative leadership, bills, and votes over the course of many years.
Straus is a RINO who is much too closely associated on many issues with the Democrats. The last legislative session in which he was in control was a disaster for conservatism.
The voters spoke their minds last Tuesday night, and the message was clear: In order to move the Republican Party away from being RINO's and into the conservative camp, we must have a conservative Speaker.
I believe Rep. Warren Chisum has won that right because of his principled conservative leadership, bills, and votes over the course of many years.
The Texas House needs a Speaker that is representative of the majority and understands that is the will of the people of this state. We need a conservative who is not an idealogue, but a pragmatic and knows how to work with all the Representatives in the House. We also need a Speaker who knows how to get conservative legistlation most especially of a fiscal nature passed for the sake of the taxpayers of this state. Somebody who is not deaf like the Liberals and is not an Idealogue either.
I believe a majority needs and wants constitutionally sound, fiscally responsible representation both in Washington, D.C. and in the statehouse of Texas.
I implore our Texas officials to stand fast in the lawsuit to block Obamacare AND to sue the TSA and Homeland Security departments in order to gain removal of the NAKED BODY SCANNERS to which I was subjected in the El Paso airport on Saturday.
These scanners represent an unprecedented invasion of personal privacy and an unnecessary and heavy-handed new low in the systematic degradation of the dignity of U.S. citizens. What's next? Routine body cavity searches?!
I implore our Texas officials to stand fast in the lawsuit to block Obamacare AND to sue the TSA and Homeland Security departments in order to gain removal of the NAKED BODY SCANNERS to which I was subjected in the El Paso airport on Saturday.
These scanners represent an unprecedented invasion of personal privacy and an unnecessary and heavy-handed new low in the systematic degradation of the dignity of U.S. citizens. What's next? Routine body cavity searches?!
I am TOTALLY against Joe Straus serving as Speaker this term. He is too liberal to allow the changes we need to make to Texas this session. I am disgusted that the Republicans would even consider re-appointing Mr. Straus. His coilition agreement with the Democrats during the last session should be enough to disqualify him as Speaker.
Texas has long been a stronghold for conservative Americans, but I have seen that stronghold slipping away with the influx of people moving into Texas and bring their liberal view with them. Let's keep Texas conservative. Getting rid of Straus is a good start. Please keep your eyes and ears open Texans.
I will write my liberal Republican in name only representative to withdraw support from Strauss whom he helped elect. Hopefully the Ellis county area can remove Jim Pitts from office in an upcoming election. He has been one of the Liberal republicans stonewalling conservative values in Texas for some time. We need to get Strauss out of there so a conservative speaker can act as a buffer against our RINO governors more liberal leanings. We need to pass a Voter ID law, our version of the Arizona immigration check law, require E-Verify for all hiring in the state, and follow up with our versions of Oklahoma's ban on Sharia law as any part of our judicial process. We need a speaker who is on board with the Nullification process also instead of someone who says it is not acceptable. That is just for the liberal Republicans wanting to go hand and glove with the Democrat Tyranny who want to destroy our state and individual freedoms!
OUST STRAUSS! I stand with Citizen Jane, Bill Eastland and Mary Bosworth. We have been given another chance to preserve conservative values in Texas and we must not let the opportunity slip away. VOTER LEGLISATION IS CRITICAL!! Voter fraud has become an expected practice all across the country. Let Texas be the first to stand up against this assault on a vote that reflects the true will of a majority of the voters. Losing fair and square is one thing, but having to put up with elected officials who are in office fraudulantly is quite something else. We must be diligent to watch and comment at all times. We cannot let up the pressure on those who would side with liberal values. I have never understood why, in the name of good old-fashioned horse sense, those who are not legal citizens of the US are allowed to vote in the first place, and why the voter ID process is so lenient. God give us the energy to perservere and insist that our elected officials choose the honorable path.
TIME FOR A MILLION-TEXAN RALLY!!!
Time to show liberals of all stripes in Austin who didn't get the message that WE MEAN BUSINESS!
Remove Joe Straus IMMEDIATELY!
YOUR JOB DEPENDS ON IT!
No long-winded discussion required here... The citizens of Texas have made abundantly clear our desire-DEMAND for much more CONSERVATIVE government. Republican - and especially liberal "republican" - congressmen and women would be well advised to listen the the will of the voters. WE are watching very, very closely.
Steve Hughes
Fredericksburg, TX
Time to show liberals of all stripes in Austin who didn't get the message that WE MEAN BUSINESS!
Remove Joe Straus IMMEDIATELY!
YOUR JOB DEPENDS ON IT!
No long-winded discussion required here... The citizens of Texas have made abundantly clear our desire-DEMAND for much more CONSERVATIVE government. Republican - and especially liberal "republican" - congressmen and women would be well advised to listen the the will of the voters. WE are watching very, very closely.
Steve Hughes
Fredericksburg, TX
by Dora Garrison 2010-11-08 12:44:46